yoruba medicine - yoruba name for medicinal plants

Yoruba names for herbs and plants – Nigerian medicine

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Yoruba Medicine – History  The medical traditions of the Yoruba people of western Nigeria developed within a culture that deeply respects and venerates ancestors. The orishas, or gods of the Yoruba, were former ancestors such as Oduduwa, the legendary ancestor of all Yoruba people, and his son Ogun. Respect for family and ancestors is so deep that when Yoruba people die, they are buried under the floor of the family house. Their spirits remain with and protect the family.

The Yoruba believe that sickness is a whim or punishment of a specific god or ancestor, who must be identified and placated, or else is caused by witchcraft for which the appropriate countercharm must be employed. They developed a shamanistic medical tradition utilizing both herbalism (practiced by the onishegun, herbal healers) and divination (practiced by the balabwo, priests of the Ifa cult.)

Diagnosis in Yoruba Medicine

The balabwo uses both psychotherapeutic techniques in discussing the illness with the patient, also casts an oracle reading using the Ifa system revealed to the Yoruba by the trickster god Eshu Elegba. The oracular reading involves throwing a handful of 16 kola nuts from the right to the left hand, 16 times, after which the right hand is checked to see whether an odd or even number of kola nuts remains. The outcome of each set of 4 throws is marked in a sandtray with a single or double line. At the end of this process, the pattern left in the sand tray corresponds to one of the 256 verses of the Odu, which the balabwo interprets for the patient.

Because diseases may also be caused by witchcraft, curses, or a form of the evil eye, the balabwo also asks the patient questions about events that occurred in the patient’s life around the time that the illness began. Relevant information might include strained relations with family or neighbors who might have deliberately or unwittingly put a curse on the patient.

Treatments in Yoruba Medicine

yoruba medicine plants

The psychotherapeutic consultation with the balabwo is one part of the overall treatment. It has the effect of calming the patient and engendering a more positive frame of mind. The balabwo recommended that the patient take specific steps to cure the illness. By sacrificing to a particular god or ancestor, or procuring a specific charm to protect against a malicious spell. The balabwo also send the patient to the onishegun to purchase herbal remedies.

In treating diseases caused by angry gods, sacrifices may be made to the god in question, but special care must be taken not to make other gods jealous in the process. For example, it is often important to make an extra sacrifice to Eshu Elegba when sacrificing to another god, in recognition of the fact that Eshu Elegba is the messenger and mediator between the Yoruba and the gods, and also to prevent him from becoming jealous which would create further problems for the patient. The advice of the balabwo is essential to ensure that the correct procedures are followed.

Materia Medica and Important Texts in Yoruba

The important text of Yoruba medicine is the Odu, a collection of 256 verses which is the oracle consulted for diagnosis and treatment by the Ifa priests. The Odu was revealed to the Yoruba people by the god Eshu Elegba. Another important text is the Awakaiye, The Fruit of Universal Knowledge.

It should be noted that the Santeria tradition, which was brought to the Americas by African slaves, is descended from the Yoruba teachings.

yoruba medicine - yoruba name for medicinal plants

Some herbs in yoruba language

If you want to know others, just post a comment!

  • Basil plant – Nchanwu in Yoruba
  • Fenugreek – ewedu in yoruba, hulba in Hausa
  • Hibiscus plant – Zobo
  • Tamarind – tsamia
  • Tumeric –  ata Ile pupa in Yoruba
  • Cayenne – Bawa
  • Chilli – Shombo in Yoruba
  • Black pepper – iyere in Yoruba, Oziza in igbo
  • Thorny pigweed/prickly amaranth – tete eleegun in yoruba
  • alternanthera nodiflora – Dagunro
  • Butryospermum paradoxum – Shea tree – Ori
  • Allium sativum -Garlic – Ayu in yoruba
  • Capsicum frutescens – Tabasco pepper – Ata-wewe
  • Lactuca capensis – Lettuce – Yanrin
  • Bryophyllum pinnatum – Air Plant, Life Plant, Miracle Leaf or Goethe Plant – Abamoda
  • Zingiber officinale – Ginger – Jinja, Atale in yoruba
  • Dioscorea dumetorum – Sweet Yam- Esuru
  • Enantia chloranta – Awopa
  • Khaya grandifoliola, K. senegalensis, K. ivorensis – Oganwo
  • Sphenocentrum jollyanum – Akerejupon
  • Olax subscorpioidea – Ifan, Ifon
  • Tetrapleura tetraptera – Aidan, Aridan
  • Lecaniodiscus cupanioides – Akika
  • Lippia multiflora – Efirin-gogoro, Efirin-oko
  • Jatropha curcas – Botuje, Lapalapa
  • Jatropha gossypifolia – cotton-leaf physicnut- Botuje pupa
  • Jatropha multifida – coral plant, physic nut or Guatemala rhubarb – Ogege
  • Cymbopogon citratus – lemon grass- Kooko-oba
  • Pterocarpus erinaceus – Apepo, Agbelosun
  • Pterocarpus osun – Osun
  • Pterocarpus santalinioides – Gbengbe
  • Catharanthus roseus -Madagascar rosy periwinkle – Apabida pupa
  • Carica papaya – Papaya – Ibepe
  • Dioclea scandens – Dasa
  • Dioclea reflexa – Agbarin, Epe, Arin

Yoruba Names for plants

  • Lawsonia inermis – Henna plant – Laali, Lali
  • Ficus exasperata -Ficus Tree – Epin
  • Ficus asperifolia – Ipin
  • Ficus capensis – Opoto
  • Ficus elegans – Asoro
  • Ficus mucuso – Odan-afomo
  • Ficus thoningii – Odan-abaa
  • Ficus vallis-choudae – Ogunro
  • Vernonia amygdalina – Ewuro
  • Phyllanthus amarus – stonebreaker or seed-under-leaf- Eyin-olobe
  • Mucuna sloanei – Werepe
  • Mucuna pruriens – Ewe-ina, Yerepe
  • Alstonia congensis – Ahun
  • Mangifera indica – Mango – Mangoro in yoruba
  • Nauclea latifolia – Egbesi
  • Sorghum bicolor – Poroporo okababa
  • Senna fistula – Aidantoro
  • Erythophleum suaveolens – Erun obo, Olu-obo
  • Ocimum gratissimum – Clove Basil- Efirin
  • Telfaria occidentalis – Fluted gourd – Ugwu
  • Zanthoxylum zanthoxyloides – Senegal prickly-ash or artar root – Orin ata
  • Acalypha wilkesiana – Jiwini, Ewe larapupa
  • Sida cordifolia – flannel weed – Iso-obo
  • Sida pilosa – Eesinle
  • Sida rhombifolia – Iseketu pupa
  • Thaumatococcus danielli – Ewe moi-moi
  • Azadirachta indica – Neem, Nimtree or Indian Lilac – Dongoyaro
  • Aloe vera – Ahon-erin
  • Aloe barteri – Eti-erin, Ida-egun, Ida-orisa
  • Garcinia kola – bitter kola – Orogbo
  • Ageratum conyzoides – Billygoat-weed, Chick weed, Goatweed, Whiteweed – Imi-esu
  • Abelmoschus esculentus – Okra- Ila
  • Abrus precatorius -jequirity, Crab’s eye, rosary pea, precatory pea or bean, John Crow Bead, Indian licorice – Oju-ologbo
  • Abutilon mauritianum – Furu
  • Acacia ataxacantha – Ihun, Ewon adele
  • Acacia nilotica – Baani, Booni
  • Acanthospermum hispidum – Bristly starbur, Goat’s head, Hispid starburr – Dagunro
  • Acanthus montanus – Bear’s Breech or Mountain Thistle – Ahon-ekun, Irunmu arugbo
  • Adansonia digitata – baobab – Ose
  • Aerva lanata – mountain knotgrass – Efun-ile
  • Aframomum melegueta – Grains of Paradise – Atare
  • Alafia barteri – Agbari etu
  • Allium ascalonicum – The shallot – Alubosa elewe, alubosa onisu

Different plants

  • Alchornea cordifolia – Ipa
  • Caesalpinia pulcherima – Barbados pride, dwarf poinciana, Barbados flower-fence – Eko-omode
  • Afzelia africana – Afzelia, Lenke, Lengue, or Doussi – Apa-igbo
  • Alternanthera sessilis – sessile joyweed or dwarf copperleaf – Reku-reku
  • Anacardium occidentale – Cashew – Kasu
  • Anthocleista djalonensis, Anthocleista liebrechtsiana – Sapo, Shapo
  • Arachis hypogea – peanut, or groundnut – Epa
  • Bambusa vulgaris – Golden Bamboo, or Buddha’s Belly Bamboo – Oparun
  • Baphia nitida – African sandalwood – Osun, Irosun
  • Allanblackia floribunda – tallow tree – Eku, Eso roro
  • Byrsocarpus coccineus – Amuje wewe
  • Calendula officinalis – pot marigold – Ododo-Maria in yoruba
  • Calotropis procera – Sodom apple – Bomubomu
  • Canarium schweinfurthii – African elemi or canarium – Paapo, Origbo
  • Canavalia ensiformis – jack bean – Sese-nla
  • Carapa procera – Carapa – Abo-oganwo
  • Cardiospermum halicacabum – balloon plant or love in a puff – Shaworo
  • Celastrus indica – Ponju-owiwi
  • Ceiba pentandra – Araba
  • Cissampelos owariensis – Ewe jokoje
  • Chromolaena odorata – Siam weed – Akintola, Awolowo
  • Tetracarpidium conophorum – Nigerian walnut – Awusa, Asala
  • Vernonia colorata – Ironweed – Eriro-Ijebu
  • Xylopia aethiopica – Eeru, Erunje
  • Tridax procumbens – Igbalode, Muwagun
  • Waltheria indica – Ewe-epo
  • Vitex doniana – Oori-nla
  • Uvaria chamae – finger root or bush banana – Eruju
  • Viscum album – mistletoe- Afomo in yoruba
  • Uvaria afzelii – Gbongbose, Anikan wogba-arun
  • Urena lobata – Ilasa-agborin, Ilasa-omode
  • Uraria picta – Alupayida
  • Voacanga africana – Ako-dodo
  • Argemone mexicana – Mexican poppy, Mexican prickly poppy, Flowering thistle, cardo or cardosanto – Egun arugbo, Ekan-ekun
  • Artocarpus altilis – Berefurutu
  • Boerhaavia diffusa – punarnava – Etiponla, Olowojeja
  • Borreria verticillata – Irawo ile
  • Carpolobia lutea – Osunsun
  • Citrullus colocynthis – colocynth, bitter apple, bitter cucumber, desert gourd, egusi, or vine of Sodom – Egusi-baara
  • Citrus aurantium – Bitter orange, Seville orange, sour orange, bigarade orange, or marmalade orange – Osan
  • Aspilia africana – Yunyun
  • Nicotiana tabacum – Ewe taba

Source: An Ethnobotanical Survey of Herbal Markets and Medicinal Plants in Lagos State of Nigeria (PDF) of yoruba names for herbs and plants.

Bibliography:

  • Maclean, Una. Magical Medicine: A Nigerian Case Study. London: Penguin Books, 1977.

Some other plants:

  1. Transvaal alchornea – yoruba: ijandu, ijandudu, gbaluwo, ijan pupa, sewo sese pepe, ijan, ijan funfun, pepe
  2. Christmas bush – yoruba: isin, ipa, epa, esin, asiyin, esin abata
  3. Yellow siris, yellow bean – yoruba: ayinreta, ayinre popo, ayunre, akudinrin, alota
  4. Lebbeck tree, siris tree, white siris tree, bastard lebbeck, tall albizia, white siris – Yoruba: ayinreta; Edo: ekpaghudo; Igbo: nyie avu
  5. Flat Crown – yoruba: ayinre, ayinre isingede, ayinre ogo
  6. Black currant tree – yoruba: aduigbo, asofeyeje, olowuko, yanya holo
  7. Tassel berry – yoruba: aponlojusese, aroro
    White mahogany – yoruba: ifa okete
  8. Kola nut – yoruba: obi-abata, ogungun
    Zulu coshwood, vanquisher – yoruba: atewu-edun, orodo, ofun, fomu, obi-edun
  9. Job’s tears, gromwell-read, pearl barley – yoruba: obi, obi ifin, obi pupa, obi abata
  10. African mahogany, counterwood – Yoruba : apa, ako apa, apa igbo
  11. Pond apple – afe
  12. Soursop, prickly custard apple : eko oyibo, eko omode
  13. Wild custard apple, custard apple – abo, arere, afon
  14. Silk tree albizia, mimosa, mimosa tree, silk tree, silk sirirs, Persian acacia, pik siris tree – ayinre, ayinreye
  15. Pattern wood, alstonia – atikekereheyin, dagunro kekere
  16. Scrub ironbark, grey birch – ira odan, ira, iralodan
  17. Coastal goldenleaf, coast goldleaf – asaragba, asa gidi, aarasa, ira, fonu fonu
  18. Blighia konig sapindaceae, akee apple – isin odo, isin jise, isin oka, isin odan
  19. Triangle tops, Phialodiscus unijugatus, P. plurijugaturs, P. zambesiacus – isin ako, ako isin, odofin ile, akoisin
  20. Star apple – osan agbalumo, osan olomo wewe, onidosan, agbalumo olomo
  21. Satin leaf, Damson plum – osan edun, osan palambi, osanko
  22. Upas tree, antiaris – oriro, oro, oro efun, abori kefun, awase, oriro omo oluugbo
  23. Alligator weed – sawewe
  24. Sessile joyweed, sessile floweres globe amaranth – ewaowo, awo crede, moni roderode, sajeje

Source – CRC World Dictionary of Plants Names – Umberto Quattrocchi

  • leaves of Senecio biafrae – worowo in Yoruba
  • fermented seeds of Parkia biglobosa, African locust beans in English, Igba/Iyere in Yoruba
  • leaves of Talinum triangulare (water leaf) or Basella alba, Indian spinach in English, Amunututu in Yoruba
  • West African black pepper/Ashanti pepper (Piper guineense, Uziza in Igbo and Ata iyere in Yoruba
  • Phyllanthus amarus – ehin olobe or eyin olobe in Yoruba
  • Celosia argentea – soko (yoruba)
  • Launaea taraxacifolia – African lettuce, wild lettuce – efo yanrin.
  • Xanthosoa poeppigii – ewe koko
  • Citrus aurantiifolia – osanwene
  • Anacardium occidentale – kasu
  • Vernonia amygdalina Delile – ewuroaja
  • Bridelia ferruginea benth – ira
  • Physic nut, termite plant, Barbados nut, fig nut – eto-mkpo
  • Monodora myristica – abo lakoshe, arigho, eyinaghose
  • Lawsonia inermis – henna, cypress shrub, egyptian privet, alkanna – laali in yoruba, uhie inine in Igbo.
  • Hybanthus Enneasprmus – abiwere in yoruba Usolala-ocha in Igbo.
  • Asparagus africanus – aluki, kadankobe
  • Syzygium aromaticum – Clove – konofuru
  • Holarrhena Floribunda – Holarrhenna – Ako-ire, are-ibeji, areno, isai
  • Alstonia Boonei – awun
  • Shea butter tree – emi, emi-egidi
  • Guava – guafa
  • Solanum incanum L. – Bitter apple – ikan
  • Brimstone tree – oruwo, owuru
  • Garlic – Allium sativum – ayu

Plant names from Yoruba

  • Morinda lucida – Oruwo
  • Enantia chlorantha – Awopa
  • Alstonia boonei – Ahun
  • Gossypium barbadense – cotton seed – Owu
  • Alstonia boonei – Stool wood – Ahun
  • Cymbopogon citratus – lemon grass – Ewe tea, Oko oba
  • Carica papaya – pawpaw – Ibepe
  • persea americana – avocado pear – Pia
  • Hymenostegia – ikun
  • Emilia coccineus – Scarlet tassel flower – odundun-odo
  • Peperomia pellucida – Silver bush – Renren
  • Elaeis guineesis – Red oil palm – Ekuro
  • Vitex grandifolia – Stool wood – Oori
  • Bryophyllum pinnatum – Life plant – Abamoda
  • Cajanus cajan – Pigeon Pea – Otiili
  • Vernonia amygdalina – Bitter leaf – Ewuro
  • Nicotiana tabacum – Virginia tobacco – Ewe taba
  • Allium ascalonicum – Onion – alubosa gambari, alubosa keta, elubasa
  • Garcinia kola – Bitter kola – Orogbo
  • Citrus aurantifolia – Lime – Osan wewe
  • Citrus paradise – Grape – Osan nla
  • Amaranthus spinosa – spiny amaranth – Tete elegun
  • Amaranthus viridis – slender amaranth – tete- abalaye
  • Bryophyllum pinnatum – mother of millions – Odundun Abamoda
  • Calotropis procera – milkweed – Bomubomu
  • Heliotropium indicum – scorpion weed – Ogbe ori akuko, Agogo igun
  • Kalanchoe crenata – Eti eleti
  • Manihot esculenta – cassava, tapioca, manioc, yucca – Gbaguda, Ege
  • Momordica charantia – bitter melon, bitter gourd, balsam pear – Ejinrin were
  • Ananas comosus – Pineapple – Ope-oyinbo
  • Ocimum basilicum – Basil – Efinrin wewe, ofen, eferi, efinrin aruntantan, efinrin ata, efinrin marugbosanyan, efinrin aja
  • Ricinus communis – Castor oil plant – lava pupa, Laa funfun
  • Bambusa vulgaris – bamboo – oparun
  • Anacardium occidentale – cashew nut tree – Kausu
  • Cucuma doonestica valeton cucuma longe – turmeric – atale, atale pupa
  • Verbena – Verbena officinalisVerbena – Ewe Orukan, Yemaya.
  • Parsley – Petroselinum crispum – Isako, Oshun
  • Sage -Salvia officinalis – Kiriwi, Babaluaye, Obatala.
  • Purslane, Pigweed, Little Hogweed – Portulaca oleracea – Gbure.
  • Spinach – Spinacia oleracea – Obedo, Ewe tutu, Ede.
  • Anise – Pimpinella anisum – Eweise, Ochiosi, Azowano.

Medicine plants with yoruba Names

  • Sweet potato – oduku, anamo, edumsi, kukundunkun
  • Colocasia esculenta – taro, dasheen – ikoko, kok, isu koko, koko, koko funfun
  • Canna indica – edible canna – ido, okun
  • Cyper esculentus – chufa, rushnut, earth almond – ofio, ofio omu, imumu ofio omu, erunsha
  • Dioscorea alata – water yam, common yam – ewura duduku, kiamfa, arunfanfan, atti, egbodo
  • Dioscorea bulbifera – potato yam, aerial yam – emina, guite sinde, guite sode, aparia isu, emina esi,
  • Dioscorea cayenensis – yellow yam, negro yam – pansaga, agandan, aginipa, apepe, igangan
  • Dioscorea dumetorum – Bitter yam – itakun isu
  • Dioscorea esculenta – lesser yam – isu alubosa
  • Musa paradisiaca – plantain – (banana fruit) ogede agbagba
  • Zea mays – sweet corn – agbado
  • Centella asiatica – asiatic pennywort, wild violet – ewe karo
  • Crassocephalum crepidioides – hawksbeard velvetplant – ebolo, efodu, egusi
  • Opuntia ficus-indica – prickly-pear, Indian fig – oro agogo
  • Cucurbita pepo – summer squash, courgette, zucchini, marrow, pumpkin – elegbe, elegede, apala
  • Lagenaria siceraria – bottle gourd,calabash gourd, white flowered gourd, white pumpkin – igba
  • Luffa aegyptiaca – smooth loofah, discloth gourd, sponge gourd, vegetable sponde – run, erun kaankan
  • Telfairia occidentalis – fluted gourd – egusi, iroko
  • Trrichosanthes cucumerina – snake gourd – tomato elejo
  • Arachis hypogaea – peanut, grouns nut, pea nut, chinese almond – egpa, epa gidi, ogodsia
  • Cajanus cajan – pigeon pea, cajan pea, Conge pea, yellow dhal, cajan pea – otili, otimi
  • Canavalia ensiformis – jack bean, horse bean – papanla, popondo, poponla
  • Lablab purpureus – hyacinth bean, lubia bean, Indian bean – awuje
  • Mucuna prurins – velvet bean, buffalo bean – werekpe, esin, esinfunfun, esise, ewe ina, here, wepe, werepe, yerepe
  • Solanum melongena, eggplant – Igba aja
  • Ewe omisimisin is cat eyes leave

Visit this 2 articles for some more yoruba plant names

Dictionary of Medicinal and Poisonous Plants – Yoruba Names

World Dictionary of Grasses  – Yoruba Grass Name

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435 thoughts on “Yoruba names for herbs and plants – Nigerian medicine”

  1. Onye

    Just want to thank you for this wonderful information about Yoruba medicine and Some herbs in yoruba language. this is rich, kindly keep it up

    Reply
    2. kehinde

      Nnchanwu is igbo as well as dongoyaro ,I commend ur effort just thought u should know that yoruba borrowed some words from other tribe but its not part of our native language. Thank you for the intrest in my tribe

    3. Jorjette C

      I thank you. I think there should be much more available because so many people are searching for this information. Somebody who knows all these should make a website only about yoruba medicine, it would be a success.

    4. GBOLA IDOWU

      Hello Jorjette C, your answers are highly invaluable. I noticed however that twice the name of Bay leaf in Yoruba was asked but you dud not respond. Please how is Bay leaf called in Yoruba? Thanks for a good work thus far.

  3. Akin

    Your rich, enlightened and wonderful information on Yoruba herbs is highly applauded. Copious thanks and more power to your elbow.

    Reply
    1. Ukaegbu Rosemary

      i totally dig these information ! (lol). they are cool. But, i need help!
      Please, what is the native name for tea tree in Yoruba?
      Thanking you ii anticipation!

  5. shani

    Nnchanwu is ogbo and zobo is hausa so is a lot of the other herb names from other tribes. Gathering all the plant local names you know and calling them yoruba is just lazy on your part.

    Reply
  7. neneeys bola

    Thanks for all this wonderful information, more greater achievement. Pls I still don’t know what licorice is in yoruba language. I will sincerely appreciate your reply thank you.

    Reply
  9. Yomi Ogunbiyi

    C’mon Shani, if you know so much where is your contribution. You should encourage folks to do better not just criticize without a reasonable contribution.
    Thank you Ms. Jorgette C. for this good work!

    Reply
  10. Samuel

    Please what the name of dandelion leaf in yoruba of any Nigeria communicative language that will help in getting it from market pls Urgently needed for anyone who can help

    Reply
  12. Ebunoluwa

    Dandelion in yoruba is efo yanrin(tone sound is m r: yan rin) or efo awon agba or ewe isenbaye. You can get it in some rural places in Ibadan if you reside there.

    Reply
    2. NDr. Muyiwa

      Good day, Ebunoluwa pls efo yanrin is wild lettuce not dandelion. Dandelion is foreign we dont have it in Nigeria but the closest we have is wild lettuce. There had been lots of misconception on it. Thanks

    3. Bordom Isabella

      Thanks for also contributing to this mistake.In Ghana too they make the same mistakes.likewise HYSSOP and PURSLANE.In most African countries they used purslane as Hyssop.

  17. myke

    this is much coming from a non-yoruba. God bless u. most of the plants are non-native to nigeria, so they may not have yoruba names. the plants are majorly tropical and non-tropicals. so do more of researching. God bless ur effort and be well.

    Reply
  24. Haoulat Ajihun

    Hello friends of the Earth, i appriciate you recognise our native and traditional way of healing as Africans and more importantly as Yorubas, if any body need help and advise about healing on our African herbs, root, stem e.t.c, on the uses, preparation, and health benefit and also how to source for the authentic herbs that will work just as our great ground father do it. i will teach you how on any kind of treatment and for free of charge. you can just email me and leave your telephone number and message and your name please, and i will get back to you within 24hrs Email:lifeessentialsinc@gmail.com

    Reply
    3. Andrew C

      Hi Julius! Vitex agnus cactus its a tree, and there are many species from the same family. Yoruba name for vitex agnus is oori eta. Some other names found in Yoruba tribes for this tree, are:

      – oori nla
      – ori odan
      – ori

      I hope this information help you!

    1. Jorjette C

      Hello! I think I found the answer for you, it’s not the English name, but the Latin, for sure it will help you. The answer is coming in a text I found on internet and it’s sound like this:

      “Thus, the Odu specifies the healing processes. The case was treated as an emergency case by applying herbal remedies such as ointment prepared with palm tree. Massage and dietary prescription were applied. Later ewe ato (Chasmonthera Dependens) was added with ewe abirikoto (Crotalaria Lachophora), ewe odu (Solanum Americanum), the cobra’s fat and an egg to completely remove the scars on the burnt body.”

      Have a wonderful day!

    2. Jorjette C

      In this text (book) i also found some yoruba names:
      Ewe odundun (Kalanchoe Crenata)
      Igbagba – Leptoderia brachyptera
      Ooyo – Corchorus aestuans
      Ekuku – pennisetum hordeoides

  30. Oloye Orawale Oranfe

    Adupe lopolopo for the effort here and the presentation.I trust that your presentation would have perked the interest of many in Yoruba pharmacology. Oloye Orawale Oranfe

    Reply
  31. Adeleye

    please, can anyone help me with the Yoruba name for tamarind as in the real tamarind, and not the black velvet tamarind which is awin in Yoruba…

    Reply
  36. Yusuf

    I rely like this site but what am looking for I have not find it and if u can reply me your answer I ‘ll be very happy, wat is Yoruba for ceylon

    Reply
  38. Labisi

    I have learned so much from this site pls am a natural skin care expert and iIneed yoruba name for for licorice extract, thank sooooo very much

    Reply
  42. Juliana

    Pls kindly help with dis plant in Yoruba language, I want to get dem. Liquorice, Olive leaf extract, Phyllanthus amaru and Reishi Mushrooms

    Reply
    1. Jorjette C

      Hello, Ibrahim. It seems that Ewe Efinrin, in latin Achyranthes aspera (Amaranthaceae) is known as chaff-flower, prickly chaff flower, devil’s horsewhip or Apamarga.

    1. Jorjette C

      Hello, Owen. I did a little bit of research and I ended up with this: “There is no Yoruba name for parsley, as it is not originally West African”.

  54. Olushola Kareem

    Thank you for the great work you are doing. Please what is the yoruba name for the following herbs: Wild Yam Root, Dong Quai Root, Milk Thistle Seed, Maca Root, Black Cohosh Root. I would appreciate it if you answer my question, thanks

    Reply
  57. Lola

    Your Message* J! You’re a live saver, your information. worth diamond, I just want to hug from a mile. thank you so much. just for d smile, are u sure you not a babalawo? Lolzzzz. love you.

    Reply
    1. Jorjette C

      Hello, Okiki. I don’t know if it’s useful, but all I found is this: “Maca is botanically called Lepidium meyenii belongs to the family Cruciferae. It is also commonly called Peruvian ginseng, maka, mace, maca-maca, maino, ayak chichira, ayuk willku, pepper weed. “

    2. NDr. Muyiwa

      Maca root is called Baaka in Yoruba. it is very good for infections and gynaecological related issues.

    1. Jorjette C

      Hello. The basil (Ocimum basilicum) is called in yoruba language efinrin also efinrin wewe, aruntantan. The kidney beans or Phaseolus vulgaris is known in yoruba language as awuje. As for the celery, I don’t know, yet :)

  67. Ajayi Mosunmola

    Thank U so vry much 4 ur efforts in assisting to heal pple naturally.More power to ur elbow.

    Reply
  77. Ola

    Hello Admin, What is the name of this following herbs

    Bayberry
    Cinnamon
    Lavender
    Rosemary

    what is the name of this herb in Yoruba??

    Reply
    1. Jorjette C

      Hello, Jil. Orupa in yoruba language is the plant known as Hymenocardia acida. This is the latin name, I don’t know the English one. This plant it’s good for eyes problems and stomachache.

  81. Adi

    Hi everyone. Does anyone know where I can find “ipe-ele”, and what the english or spanish name might be? Thanks in advance!

    Reply
  82. Jide

    I beg u in the name of God,I need yoruba names of the following:
    Cactus
    Bayberry
    Cinnamon
    Lavender
    Rosemary
    Blue berry
    Chamomile
    Celery
    Cherry
    Clove
    Marigold
    Cumin
    Cypres
    Daisy

    Reply
    1. Jorjette C

      Hello, dear Jide. Lavander in yoruba is oruko ewko kan. Calendula officinalis – pot marigold is Ododo-Maria in yoruba. Syzygium aromaticum or Clove is konofuru. Lawsonia inermis – henna, cypress shrub, egyptian privet, alkanna is laali in yoruba. Cherry in yoruba is Agbalumo.

  86. olayinka

    pls I need Yoruba name for (1)Fenugreek (2)Fennel seeds (3) Blessed thistle (4) Saw palmetto (5) Vodka .pls I need it urgently thanks

    Reply
  89. Denrele

    Very informative. God bless u. Pls what is d Yoruba name for cinnamon,sandalwood,(not camwood) &mint leaf? Thanks in advance

    Reply
  90. taiwo

    Please, how someone can treat this staphylococcus bacteria in the body. I will be very grateful if you can get back to me because have used many herbs and Drugs. there is still no remedy. Then do you know yoruba name for HOUSELEEK LEAVES?

    Reply
  97. Taiwo Omolola

    Love your site. So educative. Well done. Please what is the yoruba name of these plants. Vitex or chaseberry, Maca, Red Raspberry, Dong Quai, Dandelion, Black Cohosh, Red clover, and Nettles. I will really appreciate if you can help with these. Thanks.

    Reply
  98. Khandy

    Hello Ms /Mrs J, this write up is much appreciated. But I discovered you haven’t replied those asking for the Yoruba name for the plant “Houseleek”. You ll be amazed at how many people are waiting for your reply on that. Pls kindly help us out on the Yoruba name for that cos we really need it. Thanks you.

    Reply
    2. Raji kerimat

      Please what is Yoruba name of Damian’s also known as Tuneral Diffusal? I will be glad if you reply…. Thanks in advance

    2. Hassan Dauda

      Pls in yoruba omisinmisin is of two type, Omisinmisin gogoro and Omisinmisin itakun ; pls which one is Licorise out of the two

  102. kayode Olaniyi

    What are the use of jahtropha ewelapalapa leave and the seeds, can the leaves be eating as vegetables.

    Reply
  104. mojisola

    Love ds site,one would feel he or she is d only one out there until one sees ds kind of place. Kudos

    Reply
  108. Albertus baruck

    This site is very very educative and helpful, The author had really help solved some of problems in herbal pharmacology by providing names both local and international. May G-d Almighty grant you more blessing.Amen

    Reply
  109. kingsley

    please help me with this herbs name in yoruba or igbo any one:
    alfalfa
    astragalus
    bilberry
    black cohosh
    black walnut hull
    bugleweed
    burdock
    butcher’s broom
    cascara sagrada

    Reply
  110. Akinsanmi

    Pls I need the botanical names of these plants; Oloje funfun, Eru aja, Awe, Idi Apata/Apata, Opa aro. Thank you very much.

    Reply
    1. Andrew C

      Celery is a vegetable that is not originary from Africa. You can find it now in markets there and what can I say its that yoruba people call it Celerimikunola igbo people call it Celerynkechi and hausa people call it Celeryharam.

  112. mope

    Pls what is the Yoruba names for these so I can get them easily .golden seal root, dong quai, hawthorn, wild yam

    Reply
    1. Jorjette C

      Bitter melon is used for stomach and intestinal disorders including gastrointestinal upset, ulcers, colitis, constipation, and intestinal worms. Also it is used for diabetes, kidney stones, fever, psoriasis and liver disease. It is considered a supportive treatment for people with HIV/AIDS. It also lowers the cholesterol levels. Increases immunity, it’s a natural source of K vitamin, it helps in pancreatic cancer. There are also some other benefits…

      Bitter melon is used for deep skin infections and wounds. It is used as a vegetable in India and other Asian countries and as an ingredient in some kinds of curries.

  117. kolawole.

    This page is very very nice. my name is kolawole, please I want to know the English name for Ebolo vegetable. thanks very much.

    Reply
  118. Jorjette C

    Hello, Kolawole and welcome here. The English name for Ebolo vegetable is Yoruban bologi. The botanically name is Crassocephalum rubens.

    Have a nice life!

    Reply
  119. Oluyemi

    Your efforts is highly commended, kudos. Please what is the native or Yoruba name of dandelion and soursop

    Reply
  120. Sesan

    ahh! I have never seen a thing like this before, I hardly pass a comment in a site, but if I don’t in this one, then I am a terrible sinner. I really appreciate you a lot. You answer the questions I have been asking for years. This is wonderful. Please where are you from, 2. are you getting this things by inspirations? . are you truly white lady? I am sorry for the question, but this is really amazing. Thank you very Much and God bless you real good.

    Reply
  126. Abiola Adetunji

    Please is there any cure herpes? I need information abt this. You can reach me on 08039282544. Pls it’s so urgent.

    Reply
    1. Jorjette C

      I think that are some natural ways to cure herpes. The herpes is the result of a body infection, so you have to treat the infection. To treat the inside infection you can try to use garlic. It also depends on which area is affected. You you have an oral herpes, then use a honey and propolis mixture.

      For genital herpes I recommend baking soda. Prepare a chamomile and marigold tea and when it has the right temperature, add a spoon of baking soda. And make vaginal douches.

  133. ALEX

    WELDONE JORJETTE C, what agreat job you are doing.

    Pls what is the natural ways/herbs for treating glaucoma and pterygium?

    thanks!
    Alex

    Reply
  138. SAMSON

    Jorjette, thanks for teaching us what we supposed to have known. But its considered a taboo here and can be easily labeled a ‘babalawo’ just because you want to maintain good health. Pls keep it up, its so educative. You may pls give the Yoruba name(s) of the following life saving plants :
    a.Sanguinarine (blood root)
    b. Chaga (a mushroom)
    c. Datura leaf
    d. Saffron (a spice)

    Reply
  142. Olayinka

    hello my noble author may GOD continue to bless u and ur family. please what is yoruba name of MACA(lepidium meyenii) thats the scientific name……pls help out.

    Reply
    1. Jorjette C

      Hello, Olayinka. I don’t know if it’s useful, but all I found is this: “Maca is botanically called Lepidium meyenii belongs to the family Cruciferae. It is also commonly called Peruvian ginseng, maka, mace, maca-maca, maino, ayak chichira, ayuk willku, pepper weed.”

    1. Jorjette C

      Hello, Mary. Because I consider it is nice to read all the story I found out about Igni nla tree, I will quote here an answer offered by Joyce Lowe:
      “I refer to the Research Note by O.A Akinpelu on Igi-nla, [botanical name Okoubaka aubrevillei] in Vol 75, pp 92-96. In the Flora of West Tropical Africa, ed, 2 (Keay, 1958) and Trees of Nigeria (Keay, 1989), it was placed in the family Octoknemataceae, but was later moved to the family Santalaceae (see Burkill, The Useful Plants of West Tropical Africa, ed, 2, Vol. 5, 2000). The generic name, Okoubaka, comes from oku baka, the name in Anyi (an Ivory Coast language) meaning “death tree”. The species was first described, in French, in 1937, but only given a valid Latin description in 1946. Burkill lists other names for Sierra Leone, Liberia and Ghana, and for Nigeria he gives igi-nla (Yoruba) and akoelisi, akuobisi and okoubisi (all Edo). However, I think that okoubisi is probably a misprint for okuobisi since the source for this name is given as Hardie (see below). The tree is also found in Cameroon, with another variety in Congo.
      The tree is said to prevent any undergrowth forming beneath it – although some species are immune to the effect. Burkill writes, “A tree with such remarkable properties is free from danger of felling; no one would dare to cut it, nor even touch it… It is considered so malign that the Liberian Government at one time forbad possession or sale of the bark… Medicine-men devised means to propitiate the spirit of the tree with suitable gifts to enable them to remove bark without risk of fateful penalty… A pieces of bark placed in a house is held to drive out spirits and robbers… and in this modern age… a pieces of bark carried on one’s person is protection against car accident.”
      The Nigeria Field published an article on the tree in 1963 (“Okoubaka- a rare juju tree,” vol,28, pp. 70-72) by A.D.K. Hardie, a Forest Officer at Sapoba Forest Reserve. He gives the Bini [Edo] name as okuobisi, meaning “a big tree,” and writes, “it is reputed to kill all neighboring trees except Myrianthus arboreus and Musanga cecropioides… which are called respectively the wife and servant of okuobisi.” He observed one Okoubaka (60 feet high) which had no tree within 80 feet of it, except for Myrianthus, Musanga and one woody Vernonia. He goes on “According to Bini informants, the bark is commonly used in making charms to drive evil from a house and to inflict a curse upon an enemy, the bark may be removed by day or at night – never at sunrise or sunset when the tree ‘spits poison’ but first it is necessary to propitiate the spirit of the tree by offering gifts: usually portions of kola nut, white yam, coco-yam and plantain, two cowrie shells, a pieces of white drill cloth and a quantity of chalk.”
      Hardie was informed by the nursery headman (Joseph Iruwa) at Sapoba that J.D Kennedy knew of okuobisi and was well aware of it reputation. In 1930, Kennedy obtained seed of the tree which he sowed in the nursery. When the plants were 12 – 18 inches tall, adjacent seedlings began to die, and the okuobisi were discarded. Kennedy also sowed some in the nearby forest, which Hardie suggests are the trees he observed in the 1960s.”
      My Last Line:
      Talk of the ultimate mystery? Well, I was at a scientific meeting at one of the parastatals of the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology, Abuja with an Italian and some others in March 2006. We were discussing the Baobab tree and its very rich resources. The Italian and his Nigerian partner asserted as a matter of fact that none of the still or video pictures they took of a Baobab tree in a village somewhere in Nasarawa State could be printed or played back when they returned to base. They thought it was a cameraman’s error and returned to Nasarawa State to take more pictures but the villagers hinted that the earlier fate would befall the new set of pictures unless sacrifices were made to the tree! They immediately gave them money for sacrifice and were able to get good still and video pictures.”

      Source

  149. Asabi Fatosin

    You are to thanked and appreciated for your research, work and willingness to share for the benefit of all. Continued blessings and encouragement.

    Reply
  151. tosin

    Tenks for d good work dear jorjette c…more grace to ur elbow.. pls wat is the Yoruba name for saw palmetto and wild yam leave?

    Reply
    1. Lateef Alli

      What is best herbs treatment for epilepsy, .my daughter of 15yrs just started it 7yrs ago. Then What is your name for this passion flower, chamomile and Daniellia oliveria

    1. Jorjette C

      Hello, my dear bee. If you want to treat annovulation, you should consider to eat a nourishing diet, rich in fresh fruits and vegetables,
      to exercise regularly, to reduce the stress.
      You should also consider using fertility herbs: Tribulus (Tribulus terrestris), Vitex also known as Chaste Tree Berry (Vitex agnus-castus), Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), Maca (Lepidium meyenii).

  155. rabzy

    @JC, i dont even know what to say to you. So i will just keep quiet. I think thats the best compliment i can offer.

    Reply
  158. Juls

    What is the yoruba name for indian turmeric or goldenseal leaf and wild letus…and pls what bot d yoruba names for chasteberry or vitex agnus and maca

    Reply
  161. joke

    Your Message*God bless u sir, pls what are d yoruba names of these herbs :chasteberry, wild yam root, Tribulus, Yarrow, Dang quail root, Black cohosh root. Thank u sir.

    Reply
  162. Emmanuel Daniel

    Please inform need the meaning of these words in yoruba and hausa;
    Cinnamon powder, and sesame seed.
    Please is there any home ready for pimples for a lady that is close to her thirties…
    Thanks for all your updates, am really pleased.

    Reply
    1. Jorjette C

      Hello, Emanuel.

      Home remedies for pimples – there is a lot to write. It is about the lifestyle, it’s not about only the skin. It is important to drink at least 2 litres of water a day, to eat mostly fresh fruits and vegetables.

      A remedy for skin – chamomile tea, baking soda (bicarbonate de soude). First prepare the tea and make a steam bath for the face with this tea. After use the baking soda for cleaning the face, as a scrub. Remove the baking soda and use a gently mask made of fresh fruits puree. After removing this mask, she can use an oil or nothing.

      She can do this once or twice a week. You can read more about pimples remedies here.

    1. Jorjette C

      First of all, premature ejaculation is a psychological problem and you should start from this point. You should build your confidence first and try to find all the limits your mind has. You should see also a good therapist who can help you find yourself. Or maybe you can try some personal development/spiritual seminars.

      Secondly, you should have a balanced diet, a balanced lifestyle. You should exercise, drink water, eat healthy (many fresh fruits and veggies). You should especially exercise your coccygeus muscle

  168. Yhemmy

    Hi JC,

    Thanks a lot for this post.

    Can you give a combination of Nigerian herbs that can be used in a herbal oil infusion to achieve glowing skin complexion and excellent skin tone.

    Thank you

    Reply
    1. Jorjette C

      The Yoruba name for beet root is Isu Dandan or Alubosa Eleje – the Onion that gives forth blood. If you are referring to Nigella Sativa which is popularly called black seed or black cummin. It is not really indigenous to Nigeria but the islamic name which the hausa people use as well is Habbatu Barakah/ Habbatu Saudah. Hope this helps.

      In Yoruba language, propolis is called Ida.

  174. esther

    Keep up with your good work. Please can you help me with the yoruba name of fennel seeds,blessed thistle root,fenugreek seeds,saw palmetto

    Reply
    1. Jorjette C

      Hello, Adeola. The yoruba name for lemon is ọsan wẹwẹ and for orange is orombo. Fig is opoto, strawberries are sirọbẹri, apple is apus, peach is piṣi. Grape is girepu, pear is péa, avocados are afokado, banana is Ọ̀gẹ̀dẹ̀ wẹ́wẹ́.

    2. Jorjette C

      Carrots are karots, corn is oka/agbado, cucumbers are kokunba. Garlic is ajo, lettuce is letusi, olives are olifu. Onion is alubsa, peppers are ata, potatoes are anamo. Pumpkin in yoruba is ponkin, beans are ewa and tomatoes are tomati.

  182. Santiago

    Very helpful article. I need to know the vulgar name for “dyschoriste perrottetii” in yoruba is gbómopon but I need the common name.

    Reply
  188. esther

    Keep up with your good work. Please can you help me with the yoruba name of fennel seeds,blessed thistle root,fenugreek seeds,saw palmetto please reply me

    Reply
  191. SayMartins

    Your research is not just rich but intensively detailed. I apreciate you beyond words boundary. Keep it up. Licorice is omisimisi. The root is egbo omisimisi. Let’s join this wonderful author to bring back nature and ancient ways of healthy living back to Africa… NIGERIA ESPECAILLY.

    Reply
  196. Collins

    Cistanche, Cnidium, Cuscuta, Damiana, Deer Antler, Eucommia, Fo Ti, Panax Ginseng, Pyrola
    Please I need the yoruba names of this plants thanks

    Reply
  198. taiwo

    I want to appreciate everyone who has contributed in this article may the lord bless you all amen. I want to be sure dandelion is efo yanrin.thanks

    Reply
  201. ABIODUN ODUFUWA

    Thanks for your contribution.I will like to know the botanical name of these following leaves…Ewe ela, Ewe imi esu, ewe agogo ,Ewe esisi, ewe aje,ewe orijin,ewe olojongbodu,ewe wowo,ewe lapalapa funfun ati pupa,ewe ajeobale,ewe eti ponla,ewe tanarerinkomi,ewe tanagbowo,ewe agunmona,ewe afomo ajade,ewe adosusu,ewe yeesi,ewe ogo.
    I will appreciates to reconnect back to my forefather herbals account through identification post pics to help other.

    Thanks.

    Reply
  202. oluwatosin

    Thank jorjette for for your contributions toward our culture,,,, hope to send for you for award,,please what is the name for gravel root thank

    Reply
  203. Folakemi

    Please what is the yoruba name for Alchemila vulgaris also known as Lions foot or bear foot or nine hooks or lady’s mantle, I really need an urgent answer please, you can also send the reply to my email box. Thanks in advance

    Reply
  204. Titilayomi

    Infact am highly impressed & inspired about this site. It’s very very educative & encouraging. Keep the good work please. God will grant you more wisdom & strengthen you.

    Reply
  207. Ogungbenro Rebecca Ope

    please, I need the scientific name of the following plants
    1. Jegende
    2. Kokofe
    3. Eruwasun
    4. erun sikiti
    5.Emi-ponpon
    6. Emi-wewe
    7. Efirin Oyo.
    8. Meyinro
    9. Sageere
    thanks for quick response.

    Reply
  214. oluwatosin

    Hello ,,well done for good work ,l read everything and very very useful,, pls what is the name for gravel root also called Pye weed ,,thank

    Reply
  215. shola

    Dear sir/ma

    Good Day

    Shola by name and I urgently seek for the cure of cyst for the control of my health.
    Please here is my email nd I will appreciate if you can help me out with it. Hoyeniyi@gmail.com

    Thanking you

    Regards

    Shola
    08103609558

    Reply
  217. Aderemi

    First off, I would like to take this opportunity to thank yo immensely, Ms. Jorjette C. May our Yoruba ancestors also thank and guide you. And, please folks, stop referring to this nice lady as “sir” or “Mr.” this is stupid of you people. The woman has helped you dindinrin by putting her picture on the page gbagada-gbagada! Some of you continue to refer to her as a man. Gosh!!!!!!?????
    I took my time out and actually read everything on this page. It’s shameful and disheartening to see many so-called Yoruba exposing their ignorance and stupidity on this forum. Granted, there are some funny botanical names, which we are not familiar with in Yorubaland, however, some of these were actually taught to us in biology, agric. Science and botany in our school days. I know some of you are olodo rabata (poor students); also, a number of you idiots are hypocritical imbeciles. Many of you have messed up lives with religious fanaticism and fundamentalist ideology (especially the Christian hypocrites). I wonder why you Christian fundamentalists are now running up and down looking for our Yoruba herbs, leaves, and roots for healing since your “Jesus” is supposed to “heal” you! And, why are you looking for natural healing if your European god, “Jesus,” had died for you on the cross! Lying bitches! I wonder if your so-called “daddy G.O’s” and gods-of-men are not going to frown on you looking for healing from our traditional ways in lieu of your white hankies and unholy water!?????
    Yoruba parents of nowadays can see how stupid they have been. The Yoruba parents only speak English to their offspring in Yorubaland. Most churches in Yorubaland only glorify foreign culture and tradition by conducting their services in English language! Now, a white woman is teaching your imbecilic children their mother tongue– very soon, the Yibos, who are in their millions in Yorubaland, will teach your children about their language and culture. Oro epe ko ni eyi o. This is definitely not a curse but reality! It is an eyesore – if Carr is not taken, so shall it be! Some of you Yoruba parents even made it an offense for your children or wards to speak Yoruba in your household. Some of you idiots put up signs like: “Vernacular speaking is utterly PROHIBITED in this house!’ Vernacular? Our own Yoruba language in our Yorubaland has now become a vernacular? How sick can you be? Some of the so-called Yoruba children on this page are so pathetic that it’s mind-boggling! Imagine a supposed Yoruba child asking “what is Yoruba name for lemon orange”? So, the brat didn’t know lemon and lime? Argh!!!! It took a non-Yoruba, a white woman, for that matter to teach you that it’s “osan wewe.” She even teaches you what orombo is. Imagine a white woman telling you this: “Hello, Adeola. The yoruba name for lemon is ọsan wẹwẹ and for orange is orombo. Fig is opoto, strawberries are sirọbẹri, apple is apus, peach is piṣi. Grape is girepu, pear is péa, avocados are afokado, banana is Ọ̀gẹ̀dẹ̀ wẹ́wẹ́”? Dindinrin n din robo! And the following: “Carrots are karots, corn is oka/agbado, cucumbers are kokunba. Garlic is ajo, lettuce is letusi, olives are olifu. Onion is alubsa, peppers are ata, potatoes are anamo. Pumpkin in yoruba is ponkin, beans are ewa and tomatoes are tomati”? Shame on you!
    I commend Ms. Jorjette C., for being so patient with some of you. Some of you’re irritatingly repetitive. For example, the woman already told you the meaning of cinnamon and many others, but it’s so annoying that most of you kept asking the same questions!
    And, to you Yibos, who continue to badger the woman for names of herbs and plants in your moribund Yibo language. Can’t you see that this woman is interested only in Yoruba language? Can’t you see that 99.9% of her work on this page is focused on Yoruba culture and language?
    Once again, thanks, Jorjette C.

    Reply
    1. Jorjette C

      I thank you very much for your time to read everything on this page and to comment.

      I observed that people do not have time to read, so it is easy for them just to ask again.Maybe somebody will answer.

      People are blind and don’t want to see what it is in front of them, thy see only what is in their mind. As you probably observed, I do not know yoruba language and my answers are based on research, so I answer only what I am able to.

      Hope to “see” you again! I really enjoyed your comment!

    2. Sheree A

      To Aderemi.
      Your write up here rings so true, and sure is spot on. l surmise by saying there is also a lot of ignorance with PLANTS, BOTANICS and Nature healing.. Without the Chlorophyll from Plants, there will be ‘’’NO HEAVEN AND EARTH rejoicing”””

      Spirituality of Nature scares a lot of people and is termed IDOLATORY.. by religion, whilst a lot of the religious leaders uses BOTANICS / herbs and Medicine.

      *****In responding to the persons who requested for Tribulus,,, it is INDIAN AYURVEDIC medicine, not YO’BA or YORUBAIC Nature medicine****

      Sheree A

  220. Olawunmi

    Thanks for the beautiful work, may God almighty continue to strengthing you , Asa wa onipare. Please what is Yoruba name for Cinnamon.

    Reply
  222. Ade

    I am loaded with inexpressible gratitude! I’ve searched soooooo much and finally I’d just ask you… if you have the grace, kindly tell me the Yoruba name for WISTERIA… I must find it. Thanks real big… Orí Adé a gbè yín oooo. Ase!

    Reply
  228. Liman Abbas

    i wish to thank the author for this very significant contribution. it has alleviated my translation effort of plants.

    Reply
  231. olakanmi olamide

    THANKS FOR YOUR WORK. PLASE I NEED YORUBA NAME OR CORIANDER LEAVE OR CILANTRO LEAVE. 2. WHAT IS YORUBA NAME FOR MINT LEAVE AND PARSLEY.
    SOME PEAOPLE SAYS YORUBA NAME FOR PARSLEY LEAVE IS EWE SEPELEBA, IS IT TRUE?

    Reply
    1. Jorjette C

      As I know, Parsley – Petroselinum crispum is Isako, Oshun. Coriander aka Cilantro or Chinese parsley is ‘Lansir’ in Hausa, Ewedu in yoruba, mirinder in Nigeria.

  237. SMI

    what is the yoruba name for this herbs
    1. Tribulus (Tribulus terrestris),
    2. Vitex also known as Chaste Tree Berry (Vitex agnus-castus),
    3. Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus),
    4. Maca (Lepidium meyenii).
    5. Stevia leave (SweetLeaf Stevia)Scientific name: Stevia rebaudiana Genus
    6. name of sweet leaves

    Reply
  240. Olu El

    I appriciate every effort it took to put all these together and hope the mother earth see all.
    The earth that you step your feet on will yield the best fruits for you, this is my prayer.

    May the earth bless your effort.

    Wizard.

    Reply
  250. Florence

    This is awesome, more grease to your elbow, please madam, what is hawthorn berry in Yoruba and can it be found in Nigeria. And please madam which herbs can be used to treat congested heart. Thanks so much my. Looking forward to hearing from you soon

    Reply
  260. chima friday

    Am so excited to be a life and withness this great adeal that you are given to us may almighty God bless you very much is mr chima friday

    Reply
    1. Ray

      What is the Yoruba meaning of these plants

      Antidesma membranaceum
      Antidesma venosum
      Antidesma vogeliana
      Antidesma rufescens

  267. Rich

    Thank you so much for this info on Yoruba names of plants, herbs and spices. I’m a fan of your site already.
    Kudos for the great work and research. I’ve waited for this for long.

    Reply
  270. Adeola

    Thank you so much. Can anyone help me with the name of Wormwood in Yoruba? It’s a leaf but what is it called in Yoruba. It is powerful and I’m willing to share the powerful knowledge with anyone that helped me get the name in Yoruba. Please i need a trutful answer

    Reply
  271. anita

    I’m so appreciate, what is called fennel seed in Yoruba. And what I can cook as medicine or herb to drink to make me add in weight.

    Reply
    1. Sheree A

      Gee!! In reading through this trail of requests and responses l extend appreciation to the author named. Jorjette..

      Igi nla / OKOUKOBAKA aubrevielleui is also called Igi ASE., and you can order it from the Homeopathic section of your Pharmacy as a TINCTURE.

      Anita,
      Fennel seeds assists breasfeeding women with milk production,, for fluid retention,etc,, NOT “”TO ADD IN WEIGHT’’’

      PLANTS,SEEDS, herbs,BOTANICS should not be misused.. THEY WORK IN HARMONY WITH THE BODY UNDER DIAGNOSTIC DIRECTIVES.. ldiligence and CAUTION a must, if you are taking ALLOPATHIC MEDICATIONS..

      ****I came by this thread /site in my search for what YARROW (Archillus milifofolium) )is in YORUBA… … l will appreciate feedback.**

      Sheree A

  273. BollyD

    Hello,you have done
    a very good job, God bless you real Good. Please what is the Yoruba name for
    1.wheatgrass
    2. Wormwood
    Thanks

    Reply
  274. Lara Steve

    Big thanks to the author. Please note that different plants grow in different regions. Plants such as bay, cinnamon, mint, coriander, fennugrek, Parsley fennel etc are of Asian origin and so therefore do not have Yoruba names. Dongoyaro is Hausa and not Igbo, it means tall child,ASHWAGANDHA is of Indian origin. Like cinnamon was given the name igi didun from it nature but it is not from Yoruba land it belongs to Asia.
    Indian almond leaves and and stem bark will boost your immune system.

    Reply
  276. Ray

    Please what’s the yoruba name for the plants below:

    Antidesma venosum
    Antidesma vogeliana
    Antidesma rufescens
    Antidesma membranaceum

    Reply
  280. Samson

    Please, what are the Yoruba names of the following herbs/plants? I have indicated their uses. Thanks.
    chamomile – skin
    celery – hypertension
    white radish – whitening medicine
    tremella – lungs

    Reply
    1. Jorjette C

      Hello, Samson. Celery is a vegetable that is not originary from Africa. You can find it now in markets there and what can I say its that yoruba people call it Celerimikunola igbo people call it Celerynkechi and hausa people call it Celeryharam.